Waiting to Be Asked Isn’t Enough
“If the practice hasn’t mentioned it, why rock the boat?”
You hear this line more than you’d expect. And, honestly, it explains why some larger brokers only update reimbursement rates when a GP practice explicitly asks.
But here’s the thing, most surgeries are already stretched thin and time poor. Chasing brokers to spot rate changes themselves isn’t realistic, and it’s not fair either.
With NHS Sickness & Absence reimbursement rates now sitting significantly higher than before, some practices are quietly paying for more locum cover than they actually need. No alarm bells. No notification. Just higher costs ticking along in the background.
That’s exactly why we believe providers who review and update reimbursement structures before being prompted genuinely stand apart.
What proactive updates really say
When a provider reviews rates without being asked, it signals a lot more than admin efficiency. It shows:
- A clear grasp of current NHS contribution levels
- A commitment to openness (no awkward surprises later)
- Confidence in the value of their service
- Respect for long-term GP practice relationships
In healthcare, a sector built on trust, continuity, and steady partnerships, proactive rate reviews aren’t a “nice extra”. They’re simply good practice.
Our view
Your locum reimbursement policy should reflect today’s NHS contribution levels. Nothing more, nothing less. That way, you’re only paying for the cover you actually use, not yesterday’s assumptions.
And yes, this might sound slightly contradictory coming from a provider. Lower rates don’t always mean higher margins. But clarity builds trust, and trust keeps relationships intact. It really is that simple.
A few questions we hear a lot
Q. Do reimbursement rates change often?
A. Not constantly, but when they do shift, especially upward, it matters. Even small mismatches can add up over a year.
Q. Shouldn’t my broker tell me if rates increase?
A. They should. Relying on practices to spot changes themselves puts the burden in the wrong place.
Q. What if I’ve already got cover in place?
A. That’s exactly when it’s worth checking. Existing policies are often where overpayment hides.
Q. Is there a cost to reviewing my cover?
A. No. A quick sense-check can usually flag whether your policy still stacks up, no pressure, no obligation.
If you’d like to check whether your locum cover still fits, our team is happy to offer free, no‑obligation guidance.
